Mankato Area

Located in the Mississippi River Valley

Mankato and North Mankato, Minnesota, sit at opposite sides of the Minnesota River but combine to form a vibrant college town of 40,000 residents. The many students of Mankato State University keep the city active and the businesses busy.

The town boasts a great list of shops, restaurants, and hotels, along with the Mayo Hospital and Mankato Regional Airport.

Mankato is about 75 miles southwest of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area, so nightlife, entertainment, and attractions are a short drive away. The city is also convenient for the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport and many major hospitals.

Filled with Beautiful Waters

Several of the Lakes near Mankato are quite large, between 1,000 and 2,000 acres, like Lake Elysian, Madison Lake, Lake Washington, and Lake Jefferson.

These lakes make plenty of room for water activities like boating, fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, tubing, and more.

A multitude of other lakes is about the farmlands southwest of Mankato. Most of them cover several hundred acres so that you can enjoy all of the watersports with a more secluded environment.

Explore Minnesota’s Beauty

You do not have to travel outside the city for hiking, biking, or exploring the river in Mankato. It is known for its many recreation areas like Bluff Park, Hiniker Park, Spring Lake Park, and the Kiwanis Biking Trails.

Outside of West Mankato, the Rasmussen Woods feature meadows, wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife.

Minneopa State Park is the region’s most popular attraction. It is famous for Minneopa Falls, but it also offers tons of scenic hiking trails, a campground, and a large Bison sanctuary.

Exciting Events and Attractions

Some of the city’s top events are the Mankato Marathon, River Ramble, Mankato Pow Wow, Ribfest, Gather in the GreenSeam, Kiwanis Holiday Lights, and the Riverfront Park outdoor concert series.

The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, Mount Kato Ski Area, Victorian Hubbard House, and Seven Mile Creek County Park are other attractions in the city.

A Lovely Place to Call Home

Wherever you choose to reside in this lake region, you will never be far from the city or its scenic parks. It is a fantastic place for a family or retired couple, but it will also appeal to renters.